Question

Which layer of cornea helps in the hydration of stroma of cornea ?

• A. Endothelium
• B. Epithelium
• C. Descemet membrane
• D. Stroma

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The cornea consists of five layers, each playing a unique role. To understand which layer helps in the hydration of the stroma, we should look at their functions:

• Epithelium: The outermost layer that acts as a barrier against dust, water, and bacteria.
• Bowman's layer: A smooth, non-regenerative transition layer between the epithelium and the stroma.
• Stroma: The thickest layer composed of collagen and keratocytes, providing strength and elasticity.
• Descemet membrane: A thin but strong layer serving as the modified basement membrane of the endothelium.
• Endothelium: A single layer of cells responsible for maintaining corneal transparency by regulating fluid and solute transport between the aqueous humor and the stroma.

The endothelium is crucial in maintaining the cornea's optical clarity by actively pumping out excess fluid from the stroma, thus preventing stromal swelling and maintaining the precise hydration level needed for transparency.

Hence, the layer of the cornea that helps in the hydration of the stroma is the endothelium.